Canada’s Davis Cup hopes have been dealt a double blow ahead of this weekend’s first-round matches in the World Group, with Milos Raonic and Daniel Nestor both unavailable.

World number 13 Raonic enjoyed a productive start to 2016 as he reached the Brisbane International final and Australian Open semis, but he has not played since that last-four defeat to Andy Murray in Melbourne.

An abductor muscle tear has kept him sidelined for the past month and on Monday he confirmed he would not be part of the Canadian side – who achieved their best Davis Cup finish in 2013 when they reached the semi-finals – to face France.

“I am deeply saddened to not be able to join my team for the Davis Cup tie in Guadeloupe, against the French team,” Raonic posted on Instagram.

“Davis Cup has always been and will continue to be a priority in my schedule. My body at this moment does not allow me to compete as the muscular tear I sustained in the Australian Open semi-finals, still proves to be an issue, one that has not completely healed.

“I have missed tournaments already this month and now I will miss the Davis Cup. It is not easy for me, as I love representing Canada and competing alongside a great team of players and staff.

“I will continue to rehab and try to be back on tour as soon as possible, remaining hopeful for the tournament in Indian Wells. I wish the Davis Cup team a great and prosperous weekend. Go Canada go!”

Meanwhile, doubles expert Nestor – who has won 47 of his 73 Davis Cup matches – will also be missing for personal reasons.

“I’m disappointed that I can’t be there with the team this week,” Nestor told Tennis Canada’s website.

“The last few years we’ve come a long way and we’ve had some good opportunities to do well at Davis Cup and it’s definitely frustrating that we haven’t been able to field our top team and maximize our potential due to some of the injuries and unforeseen circumstances that have arisen.

“I’m wishing the team the best of luck this weekend and will be looking forward to re-joining them for the next one.”